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Flow Dynamics and Pressure Modulation in a Patient-Specific Upper Airway using a Pulsating Nasal Jet.
Muhammad Aseem1, Elias Sundström2, Liran Oren1
1University of Cincinnati.
Research Square
|September 2, 2025
Summary
Pulsating nasal airflow may treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) by increasing airway pressure. This study used simulations to show pulsatile flow, unlike steady flow, generates pressure beneficial for OSA therapy.
Area of Science:
- Fluid dynamics
- Biomedical engineering
- Respiratory medicine
Background:
- Pulsating airflow via nasal cannula is a potential alternative to CPAP for OSA.
- Understanding fluid dynamics of pulsatile flow in upper airways is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate pressure and flow dynamics of pulsating nasal jets in a patient-specific upper airway model.
- To compare pulsatile flow with steady high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC).
Main Methods:
- Large eddy simulations (LES) were employed.
- Simulated steady HFNC at 40 L/min and pulsatile flow (20 Hz, 30% duty cycle) at matched mean flow.
- Analyzed pressure and flow characteristics within an anatomically realistic upper airway model.
Main Results:
- Pulsatile jets formed vortex rings, causing localized high pressure and asymmetric shear stress.
- Pulsatile flow increased time-averaged pharyngeal pressure by up to 50% compared to steady flow.
- Pressure oscillations were confined to the nasal cavity and pharynx.
Conclusions:
- Pulsatile nasal flow mechanics differ from classical vortex dynamics due to jet-wall interactions.
- Pulsatile nasal flow may provide geometry-responsive upper airway stabilization.
- This method offers a potentially more tolerable alternative to CPAP for OSA treatment.
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